HHSRS Hazard 25 - Hot Surfaces and Materials

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If a tenant reports a property to the Council for a HHSRS Hazard 25 - Hot Surfaces and Materials issue, the Council is legally obligated to inspect the property for all 29 hazards outlined in the Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS).

If the Council uncovers any Category 1 risks, it is obliged by law to take action against the landlord and any associated agents. This is not just a formality; it is a serious obligation that must be addressed.

Hazard 25 - Hot Surfaces and Materials

This hazard covers threats of:

Burns - injuries caused by contact with a hot flame or fire, and contact with hot objects or hot non-water based liquids
Scalds - injuries caused by contact with hot liquids and vapours.

It includes burns caused by clothing catching alight from a controlled fire or flame, for example, when reaching across a gas flame or open fire used for heating. It does not include burns resulting from an uncontrolled fire at a dwelling.

Around 50% of severe burn and scald injuries to young children happen in the kitchen. The most common items involved in these accidents are cups and mugs of hot drinks, kettles, teapots, coffee pots, saucepans, cookers and chip pans and deep fryers.

Vulnerable Group: Children under 5 years

Defects & Justifications

Unprotected hot surfaces - exposed surfaces to fixed appliances or pipework with surface temperatures of 43 deg C or more.
Unguarded open flames - to space or water heating appliances.
Hot water to bath - water from bath and basin taps supplied above 46 deg C.
Hot water to sink - water from kitchen sink taps supplied above 60 deg C.
Thermostatic taps - no thermostatically controlled taps or incorrectly set thermostatically controlled mixer taps or anti scald devices.
Kitchen layout - poor layout or inadequate space to kitchen, in particular where cooker or worktop is sited close to a door or thoroughfare.
Inadequate separation - of kitchen from living or sleeping areas.
Surface/liquid temperature - the temperature of the hot liquid or surface.
Exposure - the length of time exposure is expected.

Index of HHSRS Hazards

Rectifying the HHSRS Hazard 25 - Hot Surfaces and Materials: Guidance Checklist

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How can I reduce the risk of burns from hot surfaces?

Fit guards to heaters, radiators, and hot pipes—especially in areas accessible to children or vulnerable adults. Use low surface temperature radiators in care settings or homes with elderly residents.

What precautions should I take in kitchens to avoid scalds and burns?

Ensure that hot pans, ovens, and kettles are used safely. Install oven guards and avoid placing kettles near the edge of worktops. Educate tenants about safe cooking practices and keep flammable items away from heat sources.

Are there specific regulations for hot water tap temperatures?

Yes. For example, in care homes, TMV3 thermostatic mixing valves must be used to ensure bath water is delivered at a safe temperature (typically no higher than 44°C) to prevent scalding.

What building features can help minimise contact burns?

Install safety glass in fire doors and oven fronts, use insulated door handles, and provide warning signage where necessary. Ensure children can’t access high-risk zones unsupervised.

How do I inspect for potential burn hazards during an HHSRS assessment?

Check heating equipment, cooker positioning, exposed pipework, and hot water systems. Note any unprotected hot surfaces or appliances within reach of vulnerable persons and recommend corrective action.